Hello all
On an estate I am dealing with, the deceased made a homemade will which was handwritten by him on hospital paper. The two pages of the Will are loose and not fastened together. The will is also only dated “February 2020”.
What evidence do you think the Probate Registry will need to prove it? I was thinking an affidavit of handwriting (which the executor is willing to do as he knew and worked with the deceased for 50 years and knows his handwriting). Do I need to exhibit the original Will to the affidavit or will a copy suffice?
I know there is space on the PA1P to talk about “any features of the will that you wish to highlight, such as the condition of the will, or if it has been separated, why, who by and when?” but should I get the executor to sign a separate affidavit of plight and condition and finding?
Also, do you think I need to get an affidavit from the witnesses to provide the actual date the Will was signed (provided they recall that of course)?
Any help anyone can give me would be appreciated.
Many thanks,
Natalie Tonkin
Beviss & Beckingsale LLP